Reusable Syringes Still Sold in Pakistan Despite Nationwide Ban

Unsafe Syringes Continue to Circulate Despite Ban

Despite a nationwide ban on conventional disposable syringes, investigations show that reusable syringes remain widely available across Pakistan. Alarmingly, some of these syringes are falsely marketed as auto-disable devices, yet their plungers fail to lock after use, allowing them to be reused multiple times.

Field reports confirm that such syringes are being sold in Peshawar, Multan, Jacobabad, and other urban and rural markets, highlighting weak regulatory oversight. The ban, which covers 2ml, 3ml, and 5ml disposable syringes, appears to be largely ineffective in practice.

Investigators traced many of these products to factories in the Gadoon Amazai industrial zone, where manufacturing units allegedly continue producing and distributing reusable syringes nationwide. Healthcare workers warn that unsafe injection practices are already contributing to rising cases of HIV and hepatitis C, particularly in Jacobabad, a known hotspot for blood-borne infections.

Local medical staff report that informal practitioners often reuse syringes across multiple patients, charging Rs50 to Rs100 per injection. This cost-cutting practice significantly increases the risk of disease transmission.

Syed Omer Ahmed, Chairman of the Healthcare Devices Association of Pakistan, acknowledged that while the ban was a positive step, enforcement remains weak. He emphasized that the problem is deeply rooted in informal healthcare delivery systems and quack practitioners who continue to rely on unsafe syringes.

Officials from the Drug Regulatory Authority of Pakistan (DRAP) admitted compliance gaps but stated that a nationwide market survey has been ordered to identify violations. They reiterated that the import and manufacture of conventional syringes have been banned since July 2021, with all registrations canceled. Provincial drug authorities also claim they are working to enforce regulations and promised strict legal action against violators.

The persistence of reusable syringes in Pakistan’s healthcare system underscores the urgent need for stronger enforcement, public awareness, and accountability. Without decisive action, unsafe injection practices will continue to endanger lives and fuel the spread of preventable diseases.